Megan Darby
Plans to import wind power from Ireland are on David Cameron’s agenda today
amid widespread reports the scheme, worth up to 8GW, has been shelved.
The prime minister is due to discuss the matter with his opposite number in
Ireland, Enda Kenny, following a breakdown in talks between their
respective energy ministers.
Two companies, Mainstream Renewable Power and Element Power, are leading
efforts to erect 1,000 turbines across central reland to connect to the
British grid. The power generated would contribute to meeting the UK’s 2020
renewable energy target.
However, there are legal and regulatory barriers to be thrashed out and
Irish energy minister Pat Rabbitte said last week the deal was unlikely to
go ahead in time.
“At this stage I am doubtful as to whether an inter-governmental agreement
can be concluded with the British government,” he told the Irish
Independent. “I met with [UK energy secretary] Ed Davey in Brussels on
Tuesday and, following that meeting, I am confirmed in my view.
“In terms of the timelines dictated both by European policy and the
exigencies imposed on developers – in other words between now and 2020 – I
can’t now see an export project as envisaged.”
A negotiator cited in the Irish Times blamed UK coalition tensions for
undermining the project. The two sides signed a memorandum of understanding
to work together on renewable energy trading in January 2013, but the
negotiator accused the Conservatives of being more interested in North Sea
oil and fracking.
“The British government policy on energy is in an absolute state of
dysfunction,” the negotiator said. “There is a battle between the two
parties [Liberal Democrats and Conservatives].”
Even if the issues are not resolved in time for 2020, proponents said the
€6-€7 billion (£5-£6 billion) scheme could go ahead.
Kenneth Matthews, chief executive of the Irish Wind Energy Association,
said it was “an opportunity delayed rather than an opportunity lost”.
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